Mini Reviews: YA Edition

 

I've been trying to get back to some old reading habits, such as reading more young adult literature. There's been some good ones that have come out recently and today I'm happy to share two new ones that have caught my eye.

 

Under the Same Stars by Libba Bray

Pages: 480

Genre: YA Historical Fiction

Pub. Date: February 4, 2025

Publisher: Farrar, Straus, and Giroux

Source: Publisher for review

Other Books By Author: A Great and Terrible Beauty,

and The Diviners

My Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

 

 

Goodreads says, "It was said that if you write to the Bridegroom’s Oak, the love of your life will answer back. Now, the tree is giving up its secrets at last.

In 1940s Germany, Sophie is excited to discover a message waiting for her in the Bridegroom's Oak from a mysterious suitor. Meanwhile, her best friend, Hanna, is sending messages too—but not to find love. As World War II unfolds in their small town of Kleinwald, the oak may hold the key to resistance against the Nazis.

In 1980s West Germany, American teen transplant Jenny feels suffocated by her strict parents and is struggling to fit in. Until she finds herself falling for Lena, a punk-rock girl hell-bent on tearing down the wall separating West Germany from East Germany, and meeting Frau Hermann, a kind old lady with secrets of her own.

In Spring 2020, New York City, best friends Miles and Chloe are in the first weeks of COVID lockdown and hating Zoom school, when an unexpected package from Chloe’s grandmother leads them to investigate a cold case about two unidentified teenagers who went missing under the Bridegroom’s Oak eighty years ago."

 

It's 1939 and Hanna and Sophie are two girls living during difficult times. Things are changing in their village with the arrival of Nazis. But like any teenage girls from their village, they look to the Bridgegroom's Oak tree for answers as it has matchmaking abilities. But matchmaking is not what they find there and meanwhile, the Nazis become more overbearing every day. Fast forward to the 1980s in West Berlin. Jenny has moved, along with her family, from the United States to West Berlin due to her father's work. Jenny comes from a preppy Dallas family, so the West Berlin scene is new to her. She befriends Lena, a punk, and Lena challenges her long-held beliefs in almost every area of her life. Lastly, in 2020, there's Miles and Chloe who work on a mystery surrounding Chloe's grandmother's scrapbook. They learn of two girls who disappeared from her grandmother's village and with the help of some internet sleuthing they get some answers. Each story thread has themes of overcoming oppression and ultimately of hope. Libba Bray's Under the Same Stars is a historical mystery that will be sure to keep readers flipping pages.

I have always enjoyed Bray's writing and that is the case here with Under the Same Stars. This is a powerful novel, perfect for fans of Ruta Sepetys, as the story really stays with you. While I love WWII storylines, I am not sure I was in the right frame of mind to appreciate this one. I also struggled with the 2020 plot thread as the pandemic plays a role. Again, I am also not sure I am ready to read about COVID yet - too soon? Nonetheless, Bray's story kept me engaged, despite my issues with the difficult topics as well as some uneven pacing. Having three different points of view can be daunting at times, but overall, she really pulled together a powerful story that tied together the three narratives very well.Under the Same Stars is a GMA YA book club pick and I can see why. It would lend itself to wonderful discussions.

The Dagger and the Flame by Catherine Doyle

Pages: 510

Genre: YA Fantasy

Pub. Date: October 1, 2024

Publisher: McElderry Books

Source: Personal Copy

Other Books By Author: Vendetta

My Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars 

 

Goodreads says, "In the dark underbelly of a beautiful city, two rival assassins are pitted against each other in a deadly game of revenge, where the most dangerous mistake of all is falling in love…

In Fantome, a kingdom of cobbled streets, flickering lamplight, beautiful buildings, and secret catacombs, Shade-magic is a scarce and deadly commodity controlled by two enemy the Cloaks and the Daggers – the thieves and the assassins. On the night of her mother’s murder, 17-year-old Seraphine runs for her life. Seeking sanctuary with the Cloaks, Sera’s heart is set on revenge. But are her secret abilities a match for the dark-haired boy whose quicksilver eyes follow her around the city?

Nothing can prepare Sera for the moment she finally comes face-to-face with Ransom, heir to the Order of Daggers. And Ransom is shocked to discover that this unassuming farmgirl wields a strange and blazing magic he has never seen before… Among rumours of monsters stalking the streets and the rival guilds grappling for control of Fantome’s underworld, Sera and Ransom are drawn together by something more than just magic and must face a deadly choice - forgiveness or vengeance? Kiss or kill? Dagger or Flame?"

Seraphine Marchant's mother makes Shade, which can be manipulated for various uses by Fantome's underworld. For starters, a person can use it to hide in the shadows, which makes it perfect for stealing, and when ingested it makes you a lethal killer. When Sera's mother is killed, Sera flees to Fantome's countryside and seeks refuge with the Cloaks. The Cloaks and the Daggers are two rival groups and now she is the Dagger's newest mark. Ransom, a talented Dagger, is looking for her. The two, while rivals have an undeniable connection, and as secrets unfold, alliances will be challenged. The Dagger and the Flame by Catherine Doyle is the first installment in a new romantasy perfect for fans of the genre.

 

I found Sera's story very compelling in The Dagger and the Flame, mostly due to Doyle's outstanding world-building. She develops Fantome very well; the details surrounding the catacombs, the dark underbelly of the town, and the cobblestone streets lit by lamplight are all very well done and atmospheric. My only gripe with The Dagger and the Flame is that Sera and Ransom lacked any real chemistry. While it is implied throughout the novel, it really isn't developed and it feels too superficial and immature at times. Nonetheless, fans of the romantasy genre will be pleased with the immersive world-building. I am sure many will continue with the series; however, I think I will look to many other novels from this genre that are saturating the market.

Are you a fan of young adult literature? Do you plan to read Under the Same Stars or The Dagger and the Flame? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

 

Book Review: I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys

Pages: 336

Genre: YA Historical Fiction

Pub. Date: February 1, 2022

Publisher: Penguin

Source: Personal Copy

Other Books By Author: Out of the Easy,

Salt to the Sea, and The Fountains of Silence

My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

 

 

Goodreads says, "Romania, 1989. Communist regimes are crumbling across Europe. Seventeen-year-old Cristian Florescu dreams of becoming a writer, but Romanians aren’t free to dream; they are bound by rules and force.  Amidst the tyrannical dictatorship of Nicolae Ceaușescu in a country governed by isolation and fear, Cristian is blackmailed by the secret police to become an informer. He’s left with only two choices: betray everyone and everything he loves—or use his position to creatively undermine the most notoriously evil dictator in Eastern Europe. Cristian risks everything to unmask the truth behind the regime, give voice to fellow Romanians, and expose to the world what is happening in his country. He eagerly joins the revolution to fight for change when the time arrives. But what is the cost of freedom? A gut-wrenching, startling window into communist Romania and the citizen spy network that devastated a nation, from the number one New York Times best-selling, award-winning author of Salt to the Sea and Between Shades of Gray."

 

Cristian Florescu seems like a normal teenager living in the not-so-distant past of 1989 except he lives in communist Romania so he has little to no freedom.  Just like most teenagers, he has things he enjoys and a crush on a girl, but his life becomes extremely complicated when he finds himself forced to become an informant for the secret police.  If he doesn't help them, he will be in even more trouble than before; however, if he does spy on the the family of the American diplomat then they will help him by providing the much needed medicine his grandfather needs. How can Cristian say no? Well, you can't....not to the secret police.  So, he reluctantly enters the world as an informant. However, this all changes when Cristian, along with his teenage friends, realize that there are other countries who have escaped communism.  It's time for a revolution!  I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys is a heart-wrenching and memorable historical novel that takes readers into the world of a youth led rebellion against communist Romania.

Cristian is a relatable protagonist even though he living during extraordinary times in Communist Romania. Like many other teenagers, he loves his family, enjoys poetry, and has a crush on a teenage girl.  May teenagers can relate to him and sympathize with his difficult situation.  It's crazy to think that the only reason he got into the hands of the secret police was because he was carrying a dollar bill with him, which is strictly forbidden.  The rules imposed on Cristian, as well as the other Romanian citizens, are absolutely absurd. It was extremely eye-opening, which leads me to the setting in I Must Betray You.

Readers can always count on Sepetys to bring a time period to life that is lesser known. Actually, I can't think of a young adult author who does it better. Sepetys brought Communist Romania to life in a way that tugged on my heartstrings and many people might not know about when the dictator Ceausescu was in power .  The secret police tucked around every corner made my heart beat rapidly combined with Cristian's espionage was seriously heart pounding.  Children couldn't even walk the streets safely; it's crazy to think that this wasn't very long ago! Also, Sepetys brought the time period to life by including bits of the secret police's memos.  This definitely added to the suspense.

If you are looking for a brilliant historical novel that has major cross-over appeal, I urge you to read I Must Betray You. I not only learned a lot about the time period, but it was such a moving read that will most definitely stay with me. Sepetys is easily one of my favorite authors of historical fiction.

So, are you a fan of Ruta Sepetys? Have you read I Must Betray You? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below. 

  

Blog Tour: Saving Dr. Warren...A True Patriot

Do you have a young adult at home who loves historical fiction and stories of adventure and patriotism? If so, you are going to especially appreciate the giveaway I am sharing with you today. 

I've partnered with The Children's Book Review and Jeffrey McKenna to share with you guys a giveaway for Saving Dr Warren...A True Patriot by Jeffrey McKenna.  As a history lover, I really like that this book covers various important moments in the Revolutionary War and introduces young readers to Dr. Joseph Warren. This book would be a great resource in a middle school history classroom.  

Learn More About the Book:

Publisher’s Synopsis: "Patriotism Prevailed in… ✯ The American Revolution  ✯ WWII  ✯ 9-11  What About Today?  How do we share Patriotism with America’s Future?  The novel Saving Dr. Warren… A True Patriot answers that question through the eyes of a 14 year old boy.   Steve O’Dell loves to write and does it well. But as an eighth-grade student at Needham Middle School, his talent sometimes seems more an embarrassment than a blessing.  Then, on Veterans Day 2001, Steve’s award-winning essay propels him into an adventure twisting through Revolutionary battles and bloodshed. Thanks to the bizarre bequest of a manuscript and a musket ball from a long-lost family war hero, Steve’s journey with the Revolutionary War hero Dr. Joseph Warren begins.  A time-traveling talisman missing from the archives of one of Boston’s oldest historical societies takes Steve through portals of history, where he walks side by side with a real Boston patriot. He makes house calls with Dr. Warren on March 5, 1770, and stumbles onto the bloodstained streets of the Boston Massacre. From the killings of March 5 to boarding tea ships in 1773, Steve’s history book explodes to life as he helps Dr. Warren and forges a friendship with Boston’s True Patriot. Steve watches Dr. Warren launch Paul Revere on his midnight ride, and he helps Dr. Warren dodge British musket balls in the first battles of the War for Independence. With each adventure, Steve tastes the light that ignites The Revolution.  Steve will eventually convince others that the Revolutionary relic he was given really does open portals through time, but he faces his most difficult quest alone—saving Dr. Warren from the onslaught at Bunker Hill. Can he do it? And if he fails, will he ever return to this century?  Saving Dr. Warren…A True Patriot rips through the pages of history. From the Revolutionary War to the vanishing veterans of World War II, to the ashes of September 11, 2001, Saving Dr. Warren demonstrates to both old and young that patriotism, standing like an old oak tree on a grandfather’s farm, has and will endure."

Ages 11-15 | 366 Pages | Publisher: Jeffery J. McKenna | ISBN-13: 978-0999901205

You can purchase the book at Amazon and learn more about Jeffrey McKenna by visiting his website.   

 

 

The Giveaway:

One grand prize winner will receive a copy of Saving Dr. Warren...A True Patriot, autographed by Jeffrey McKenna and a 1700s musket ball.  Two winners will receive a copy of Saving Dr. Warren...A True Patriot, autographed by Jeffrey McKenna.  The giveaway begins December 10, 2020, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends January 10, 2020, at 11:59 P.M. MT.  

 

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck!

Book Review: Dangerous Alliance by Jennieke Cohen

Pages: 448

Genre: YA Historical Fiction

Pub. Date: December 3, 2019

Publisher: HarperTeen

Source: Publisher for review

My Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Goodreads says, "Lady Victoria Aston has everything she could want: an older sister happily wed, the future of her family estate secure, and ample opportunity to while her time away in the fields around her home.  But now Vicky must marry—or find herself and her family destitute. Armed only with the wisdom she has gained from her beloved novels by Jane Austen, she enters society’s treacherous season.  Sadly, Miss Austen has little to say about Vicky’s exactcircumstances: whether the roguish Mr. Carmichael is indeed a scoundrel, if her former best friend, Tom Sherborne, is out for her dowry or for her heart, or even how to fend off the attentions of the foppish Mr. Silby, he of the unfortunate fashion sensibility.  Most unfortunately of all, Vicky’s books are silent on the topic of the mysterious accidents cropping up around her…ones that could prevent her from surviving until her wedding day."

Lady Victoria's life is turned upside down when her sister, Althea, leaves her Viscount husband and returns home.  Apparently, he isn't the nice guy the family thought he was. He is an abusive monster and she narrowly escaped his claws.  Now the pressure is on Victoria, also known as Vicky, to marry well, because if something happens to Vicky's father, Althea's dreadful husband will inherit it all.  Althea has plans to legally separate from her husband, but it's a tricky undertaking, especially for the Regency time period.  Things aren't simple for Vicky though. Strange things have been happening at her family's estate. Not only did a stranger attack her, there was also a serious accident, but thankfully, her neighbor and former friend, Tom Sherborne, helped her in both cases.  Tom has returned home after a long time overseas and now has his father's title.  Vicky's past with Tom is a complex one as he up and left their friendship five years ago without so much as a word.  Much is in store for Vicky and her family during this tumultuous time not to mention they have Viscount Dain breathing down their necks.  Dangerous Alliance by Jennieke Cohen is a charming historical read that fans of Austen will especially appreciate it.

I really liked the character of Vicky in Dangerous Alliance. She definitely was channeling an Austen heroine, such as Elizabeth Bennet, and was most definitely before her time. It's up to Vicky to save her family and I appreciated her gumption.  Her sister is in a bad place when she returns home, but Vicky definitely takes control and helps Althea get her life back together. Also, readers also some narration from Tom's point of view and this is especially helpful in understanding where Tom is coming from.  He has his own issues regarding his father's estate and inheritance. I was slow to warm up to Tom, but as the story progressed, I really liked them together.

Fans of Austen will especially appreciate Vicky's allusions to the classic novels in Dangerous Alliance.   Vicky often refers to the Austen novels to provide some guidance, which is fun, but these references might be over readers' heads unless they are quite familiar with the texts.

I couldn't quite figure out if Dangerous Alliance was a mystery, a thriller, or a historical romance. It definitely has aspects of all three genres.  The violence and the attacks just weren't thrilling enough to keep me on the edge of my seat though, but it was perfect if you are looking for something that isn't going to make you too tense.  Fans of Austen-inspired novels can add Dangerous Alliances to their list of books to read this winter.

Do you enjoy Austen-inspired stories?  What do you think of this one? Let me know in the comments below.

Book Review: The Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys

Pages: 512

Genre:  YA Historical Fiction

Pub. Date: October 1, 2019

Publisher: Philomel

Source: Publisher for review
Other Books By Author: Out of the Easy
and Salt to the Sea

My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Goodreads says, "Madrid, 1957. Under the fascist dictatorship of General Francisco Franco, Spain is hiding a dark secret. Meanwhile, tourists and foreign businessmen flood into Spain under the welcoming guise of sunshine and wine. Among them is eighteen-year-old Daniel Matheson, the son of a Texas oil tycoon, who arrives in Madrid with his parents hoping to connect with the country of his mother's birth through the lens of his camera. Photography--and fate--introduce him to Ana, whose family's interweaving obstacles reveal the lingering grasp of the Spanish Civil War--as well as chilling definitions of fortune and fear. Daniel's photographs leave him with uncomfortable questions amidst shadows of danger. He is backed into a corner of decisions to protect those he loves. Lives and hearts collide, revealing an incredibly dark side to the sunny Spanish city.  Master storyteller Ruta Sepetys once again shines light into one of history's darkest corners in this epic, heart-wrenching novel about identity, unforgettable love, repercussions of war, and the hidden violence of silence--inspired by the true post-war struggles of Spain.

It's 1957 and although things look beautiful and sunny in Spain, there's a darker undercurrent after the Spanish Civil War and Francisco Franco's rise to power.  Daniel is traveling to Spain with his parents; his dad is a Texan oil tycoon on business.  Sure, it would be easy for Daniel to just fall into the successful family business, but he wants so much more. His passion lies in photojournalism and where better to explore this than in Spain?  Then there's Ana, who works at the hotel Daniel is staying at.  Ana's life is complicated and her back story is a sad one.  She is assigned to Daniel's family and finds herself, along with Daniel, connecting with him in more ways than one.  There's also Rafael, Ana's brother, who also is recovering from his upsetting past, but despite this has big dreams for himself.  Lastly, there's Puri who is helping to take care of babies that are up for adoption.  Each teenager, in their own way, captures this tumultuous time in Spain's history.  The Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys explores the themes of freedom, family, loyalty, love, and the hardships of war.  This book is an excellent example of historical fiction; it will grab your heart and not let go.

I love that Sepetys focuses on four teenagers, and while they are all very different, they do have ties that bind them together.  Daniel is the only American and I found myself especially drawn to his story.  Navigating Spain as an American during this time period is tough and dangerous, especially when he takes a path that is a difficult one.  Daniel is very interested in taking photos that mean something and being here in Spain brings him an excellent opportunity, but as I mentioned before, it's very dangerous.  Plus, he and Ana have a connection, but could they truly have a future together?  I also really liked the character of Ana. Her back story truly tugged on my heartstrings.  It was challenging for women during this time period, but especially for women with backgrounds like Ana. You see Ana's parents challenged the "rules" in Spain and she is worried that her family will continue to pay for it.

What is so special about The Fountains of Silence as well as all of Sepetys' novels is the fact that she inspires readers to learn more and to search for answers. I found myself looking up various aspects of Franco's reign and the Spanish Civil War. Sepetys took a lesser known aspect of history and truly inspired me to learn more about the past. That is the perfect example of a powerful historical novel and a great reminder of why I read historical fiction.

Also, Sepetys did a wonderful job bringing the time period to life, but somehow making it still relevant to the many struggles we still face today. The Fountains of Silence would be an excellent addition to any high school classroom, especially when discussing the Spanish Civil War or fascism.  I also urge adults to pick up this novel as it is powerful and definitely a crossover to adult fiction.  If you love historical fiction or just appreciate a moving story, this novel shouldn't be missed. Sepetys is a masterful storyteller and not just a storyteller of regular stories, but of stories that truly matter....stories that stay with us.  The Fountains of Silence is one of my favorite novels of the year. 

The Fountains of Silence Blog Tour: 10 Reasons to Read It

So, if you know me, you know I am a HUGE fan of Ruta Sepetys. I think she is one of the best, if not THE best writers of young adult historical novels.  As part of Penguin Teen's blog tour for The Fountains of Silence, I'm going to share my ten reasons why you should read this book:

1.  Crossover Appeal - All of Ruta's books have a crossover appeal; her books aren't just for the young adult audience. I know so many adults will appreciate her books and that is the case here with The Fountains of Silence.

2.  Dan - Dan is the American character in The Fountains of Silence and many of the chapters are from his point of view. At first, it took me awhile to warm up to him, because I thought he might just be another spoiled rich kid since he is the son of a Texas oil tycoon, but, boy, was I wrong. As I read more of the novel, I truly enjoyed him.  Dan's bravery, his kindness, his ability to love, and even his downfalls all really captivated me.

3.  Seeker of Lost Stories - Ruta's website has this slogan on it and it is *so* very true.  Ruta has a way of highlighting lesser known aspects of history and in this case, she is focusing on Spain in the late 1950s after the Spanish Civil War in The Fountains of Silence. During this time period, Spain was under the dictatorship of Francisco Franco.  What a wild, cruel and heartbreaking time!  Ruta opened my eyes to this time in history that I knew little to nothing about.  

4.  Connections - Even though the characters lived in the late 1950s, I think many young adults can relate to their wishes, their struggles, their courage, their silence, their desires, their conflicts, and so much more. The themes of the novel are still applicable to present day.

5.  Well-researched - You know when you read a historical novel and you think did this *actually* happen? Then you come to find that the author took not just some, but a lot of liberties. That is never the case with Ruta's novels. She is a meticulous researcher and took over seven years to research this novel including many back and forth trips to Spain.  She includes excerpts from primary sources within The Fountains of Silence and that made the novel even more realistic and powerful.

6.  Google - The Fountains of Silence is so well researched; reading it made me want to learn more.  I find that all really great historical fiction has the power to do this and that is the case here. I found myself looking up information about the the Spanish Civil War, Franco, and other aspects of the novel.  When I find myself doing this then I know I am reading something very compelling and thought provoking.

7.  Believable - Oftentimes there are young adult characters in historical novels that simply aren't believable. That isn't the case here. Dan, Ana, and the others felt so real to me.  As Ruta jumps from different characters' points of view, I never once dreaded a particular character; I cared about all of them.  

8.  Discussion - I bet many schools will be adding this book to reading lists, especially to complement studying the Spanish Civil War and its aftermath.  I think The Fountains of Silence truly lends itself to some great discussions; it would be a perfect supplement in a high school classroom.  Check out the discussion guide here. 

9. All the Emotions - Ruta's novels always leave me blubbering like a fool and that is the case here too with The Fountains of Silence.  All.the.feels!

10. Smart Read - If you want a novel that makes you think, makes you truly feel, and makes you want to call your best friend to discuss it, The Fountains of Silence is it.  I love immersing myself in a smart read that leaves me with so much to think about and I can always count on Ruta Sepetys to deliver.

Learn More About Ruta Sepetys:

"Ruta Sepetys (www.rutasepetys.com) is an internationally acclaimed, #1 New York Times bestselling author of historical fiction published in over sixty countries and forty languages. Sepetys is considered a "crossover" novelist, as her books are read by both teens and adults worldwide. Her novels Between Shades of Gray, Out of the Easy, and Salt to the Sea have won or been shortlisted for more than forty book prizes, and are included on more than sixty state award lists. Between Shades of Gray was adapted into the film Ashes in the Snow, and her other novels are currently in development for TV and film. Winner of the Carnegie Medal, Ruta is passionate about the power of history and literature to foster global awareness and connectivity. She has presented to NATO, to the European Parliament, in the United States Capitol, and at embassies worldwide. Ruta was born and raised in Michigan and now lives with her family in Nashville, Tennessee. Follow her on Twitter @RutaSepetys and Instagram @RutaSepetysAuthor."

Learn More About The Fountains of Silence:

"From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Salt to the Sea and Between Shades of Gray comes a gripping, extraordinary portrait of love, silence, and secrets under a Spanish dictatorship.  Madrid, 1957. Under the fascist dictatorship of General Francisco Franco, Spain is hiding a dark secret. Meanwhile, tourists and foreign businessmen flood into Spain under the welcoming promise of sunshine and wine. Among them is eighteen-year-old Daniel Matheson, the son of an oil tycoon, who arrives in Madrid with his parents hoping to connect with the country of his mother's birth through the lens of his camera. Photography--and fate--introduce him to Ana, whose family's interweaving obstacles reveal the lingering grasp of the Spanish Civil War--as well as chilling definitions of fortune and fear. Daniel's photographs leave him with uncomfortable questions amidst shadows of danger. He is backed into a corner of difficult decisions to protect those he loves. Lives and hearts collide, revealing an incredibly dark side to the sunny Spanish city.  Master storyteller Ruta Sepetys once again shines light into one of history's darkest corners in this epic, heart-wrenching novel about identity, unforgettable love, repercussions of war, and the hidden violence of silence--inspired by the true postwar struggles of Span.  Includes vintage media reports, oral history commentary, photos, and more."

You can purchase The Fountains of Silence from Amazon and Barnes and Noble.  

Hopefully I have convinced you to pick up a copy of The Fountains of Silence this fall.  If you do, be sure to let me know what you think.  It's one of my favorite books of the year; keep your eye out for my full review soon.  

Is The Fountains of Silence on your TBR list?  Are you a fan of Ruta Sepetys as well? Let me know in the comments below.  

Book Review: Lovely War by Julie Berry

Pages: 480

Genre: YA Historical Fiction/Fantasy

Pub. Date: March 8, 2019

Publisher: Viking

Source: Publisher for review

My Rating; 4.5 out of 5 stars 

Goodreads says, "It's 1917, and World War I is at its zenith when Hazel and James first catch sight of each other at a London party. She's a shy and talented pianist; he's a newly minted soldier with dreams of becoming an architect. When they fall in love, it's immediate and deep—and cut short when James is shipped off to the killing fields.  Aubrey Edwards is also headed toward the trenches. A gifted musician who's played Carnegie Hall, he's a member of the 15th New York Infantry, an all-African-American regiment being sent to Europe to help end the Great War. Love is the last thing on his mind. But that's before he meets Colette Fournier, a Belgian chanteuse who's already survived unspeakable tragedy at the hands of the Germans.  Thirty years after these four lovers' fates collide, the Greek goddess Aphrodite tells their stories to her husband, Hephaestus, and her lover, Ares, in a luxe Manhattan hotel room at the height of World War II. She seeks to answer the age-old question: Why are Love and War eternally drawn to one another? But her quest for a conclusion that will satisfy her jealous husband uncovers a multi-threaded tale of prejudice, trauma, and music and reveals that War is no match for the power of Love."

It's 1917, which means WWI is currently happening in full force.  We meet Hazel, who is normally a homebody, but goes out one night to play the piano at a party.  While there, she meets James, a soldier, whose plans to become an architect are on hold thanks to the Great War.  Their attraction is instantaneous, but what will happen when he is shipped off to war and she remains home in her sleepy little town?  Then there's Colette, whose entire town in Belgium, suffered due to the German invasion.  Her entire family and most of the town was destroyed.  Colette enlists to avenge their deaths and because what else is there to do at this point if she wants to make a difference? Lastly, there's Aubrey, an accomplished African-American musician, who is sent to Europe to help fight along side the African American regiment.   All of the characters' slowly intertwine as the goddess Aphrodite explains stories to Hephaestus and Ares.  Julie Berry's Lovely War is a moving tale of romance, friendship, tragedy, and essentially, the endurance of love. 

I really loved the character of Hazel in Lovely War. She has spent most of her life behind a piano and hasn't truly lived.  James pushes her out of her comfort zone and they form an instant bond.  I loved following along their romance despite the fact that the war complicated things tremendously.  I also really appreciated Berry's depictions of the war and what James and other soldiers had to endure.  Berry truly brought the horrors of war to light and how its grasp continues to keep a strong hold long after a soldier has left the battlefield.  Then there's Colette and Aubrey who were also very interesting characters. Colette's back story truly tugged on my heartstrings and Aubrey was an incredible character as well.  Berry depicted not only sexism during World War I, but also racism and how that impacted the American troops serving overseas.  Berry's characters practically leaped off the page; I loved them all equally and was completely invested in their stories.

I wasn't sure how on earth Berry was going to pull off tying in Greek mythology, especially when it's Aphrodite telling the stories to the other Greek gods. It seemed almost like a plot device, but not only did she make it work, she made it memorable. In fact, I actually started caring about Aphrodite and her drama with Hephaestus, which surprised me!

Lovely War was serious at times as it deals with WWI, but it was hopeful.  It reminded me of not only the importance of love, but also the staying power of love as well as the power of hope. Needless to say, I adore the overall message in Lovely War and I am completely blown away by Berry's ability to tell a tale. She weaved a magnificent one in and I can't wait to read more of her novels in the future. Lovely War is going down as one of my favorite YA books of the year. 

Blog Tour: Spotlight on Lovely War by Julie Berry

Guys, I am super excited to be a part of the blog tour for Julie Berry's Lovely War.  It comes out March 5th and it sounds amazing. You guys know I am always on the hunt for a really great historical read and this one sounds like it fits the bill. I especially love when historical novels for YA readers as I think we need more powerful stories for this age group.  

Goodreads says, "A sweeping, multi-layered romance with a divine twist, by the Printz Honor-winning author of The Passion of Dolssa, set in the perilous days of World Wars I and II.  It's 1917, and World War I is at its zenith when Hazel and James first catch sight of each other at a London party. She's a shy and talented pianist; he's a newly minted soldier with dreams of becoming an architect. When they fall in love, it's immediate and deep--and cut short when James is shipped off to the killing fields.  Aubrey Edwards is also headed toward the trenches. A gifted musician who's played Carnegie Hall, he's a member of the 15th New York Infantry, an all-African-American regiment being sent to Europe to help end the Great War. Love is the last thing on his mind. But that's before he meets Colette Fournier, a Belgian chanteuse who's already survived unspeakable tragedy at the hands of the Germans.  Thirty years after these four lovers' fates collide, the Greek goddess Aphrodite tells their stories to her husband, Hephaestus, and her lover, Ares, in a luxe Manhattan hotel room at the height of World War II. She seeks to answer the age-old question: Why are Love and War eternally drawn to one another? But her quest for a conclusion that will satisfy her jealous husband uncovers a multi-threaded tale of prejudice, trauma, and music and reveals that War is no match for the power of Love."

I really like that Julie Berry incorporated Gods and Goddesses to act as the narrators. I think that is such a fun and interesting idea. Kate Quinn, author of The Alice Network, said it was "easily one of the best novels I have read all year!" Also, Kirkus Reviews described it as, “an unforgettable romance so Olympian in scope, human at its core, and lyrical in its prose that it must be divinely inspired.” Whoa! Now that is a glowing review!

To learn more about Julie Berry, check out her website or follow her on Twitter.  You can also add Lovely War to your Goodreads TBR list!

Let me know in the comments if you have read any of Julie Berry's novels before and if you plan on reading Lovely War. I can't wait to dive in!  Lastly, thank you to Viking Books and Penguin Teen for having me be a part of the blog tour.  

Happy Friday!

If You Love WWII Fiction

Guys, the past few years, I have read a TON of wartime fiction.  It's definitely a favorite of mine as I find, specifically, WWII to be very a very compelling time period.  Here's some of my favorite historical novels that take place during WWII:

1.  The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Annie Barrows and Mary Ann Shaffer

2.  The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons

3.  The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton

4.  The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

5.  The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

6.  The Alice Network by Kate Quinn

7.  Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys

8.  The Kennedy Debutante by Kerri Maher

9.  Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein

10.  The Light Over London by Julia Kelly

11.  At the Water's Edge by Sara Gruen

12.  The Lost Girls of Paris by Pam Jenoff

On My To-Read List:

Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly

All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

Between the Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys

The Women in the Castle by Jessica Shattuck

Everyone Brave is Forgiven by Chris Cleave

The Tattooist of Auschwitz by heather Morris

The Wartime Sisters by Lynda Cohen Loigman

The Room on Rue Aelie by Kristin Harmel

Have you read any of these books? Share with my some of your favorite novels that take place during WWII. Which book from my TBR list should I read next?  Share your comments below! 

Book Review: When We Caught Fire by Anna Godbersen

Pages: 384

Genre: YA Historical Fiction

Pub. Date: October 2, 2018

Publisher: HarperTeen

Other Books By Author: Bright Young Things,
Luxe, Rumors, Envy, and Splendor

My Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Goodreads says, "It’s 1871 and Emmeline Carter is poised to take Chicago’s high society by storm. Between her father’s sudden rise to wealth, and her recent engagement to Chicago’s most eligible bachelor, Emmeline has it all. But she can’t stop thinking about the life she left behind, including her childhood sweetheart, Anders Magnuson. Fiona Byrne, Emmeline’s childhood best friend, is delighted by her friend’s sudden rise to prominence, especially since it means Fiona is free to pursue Anders herself. But when Emmeline risks everything for one final fling with Anders, Fiona feels completely betrayed.  As the summer turns to fall, the city is at a tipping point: friendships are tested, hearts are broken, and the tiniest spark might set everything ablaze. Sweeping, soapy, and romantic, this is a story about an epic love triangle—one that will literally set the city ablaze, and change the lives of three childhood friends forever."

Emmeline's family rose through the ranks and now are in "high society" in Chicago. The year is 1871 and since Emmeline needs a lady's maid, she employs her best friend, Fiona. After all. Fiona's family definitely needs the money.  Fiona and Emmeline grew up with Anders, whom both girls still have feelings for.  This is problematic as Emmeline is engaged to Freddy, the son of a wealthy banker.  Emmeline has it all, but why can't she stop thinking about Anders? Anders isn't in Emmeline's social circles anymore; in fact, he is boxing in a bad section of Chicago, which pretty much makes him the opposite of a possible suitor.  Since Emmeline is engaged, shouldn't this mean Fiona is free to pursue him or is Emmeline not quite ready to let go of her former life?   When We Caught Fire is a soapy and romantic YA historical novel that fans of romance will savor.  

I had issues with a lot of the characters in When We Caught Fire. They were not very likable.  While I could feel for Fiona at times more than Emmeline and was definitely rooting for her, I just couldn't connect with her.  She felt very much like a cookie-cutter of a character.  Then you've got Emmeline who is the stereotypical rich friend whom only thinks of herself and acts like a brat.  I found it unbelievable that both girls would still be pining over their childhood friend, Anders.  I will worn you there is, obviously, an epic love triangle in this novel.

What works for me regarding When We Caught Fire is the compelling time period and setting. Godbersen does a wonderful job bringing Chicago in the 1800s to life.  I loved her descriptions of the parties, the furniture, the clothing, and even the town of Chicago itself.  Readers can tell that Godbersen put a fair amount of research into it, not to mention the Great Fire of 1871. Obviously that aspect of the story had me glued to the pages.

The ending of When We Caught Fire a little melodramatic, but I will admit that it kept me on the edge of my seat.  While I prefer Godbersen's Luxe series over this novel, I think fans will still appreciate this historical tale, especially if you like your historical fiction with a strong side of romance.